York University victim of $1.6-million, seven-year-long fraud

Three involved in misappropriation of funds from the university in a fraudulent billing scheme

Toronto police say three people have been arrested in connection with a $1.6-million, seven-year-long fraud at York University.

It is alleged that between November 2005 and October 2012, three employees were involved in the misappropriation of funds from the university in a fraudulent billing scheme.

Det. Gail Regan says the university contacted police after it became aware of the alleged misappropriation of funds and three people — two women and one man — were arrested on Wednesday following an investigation.

Vittoria Caparello, 51, of Vaughan, is charged with two counts of fraud over $5,000 while Yossi Zaidfeld, 38, of Vaughan, is charged with one count of fraud over $5,000. Melissa Caparello, 27, of Vaughan, is charged with possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000.

The investigation is ongoing and police say they anticipate further arrests and charges.